DRAFT. Subject to approval by the University/Faculty Senates of the four Connecticut State Universities.

Values and Assumptions Requisite for Transform CSCU 2020 Transform 2020 must, at a minimum, reflect the following values and assumptions.The extent to which it can be demonstrated to do so will be an essential determinant of the CSU faculty’s ability to support and participate in Transform’s initiatives.

The Connecticut State Universities exist to provide excellent education for our students and all aspects of Transform CSCU 2020 must demonstrably serve this purpose.

Therefore, Transform CSCU 2020 shall have as its foundation the following core values: 

Excellence in teaching and learning 

Pursuit of knowledge through research, scholarship, and creative activity 

Academic and intellectual freedom 

Integrity in all that we do 

Respect for all persons, with appreciation for diversity

Accordingly, Transform CSCU 2020 shall be based on the following assumptions: 

The education of our students is as valuable and important as that of students at any other Connecticut higher educational institution and must be regarded and supported accordingly. 

Effective learning is enhanced by face-to-face interaction between students and faculty in intellectual communities. 

We shall provide affordable access to higher education and support for student success. 

The distinct missions of the universities and the community colleges will be respected, preserved, and celebrated. 

The faculty at each institution will retain authority over all curricular matters, including which courses are to be taught online or will utilize blended learning methodologies. It will also have direct involvement in the planning and implementation of online delivery of courses and other instructional technologies.

 All planning, review, and implementation processes shall be transparent and adhere to full faculty governance and shared governance protocols and respect faculty decision-making authority over all matters related to academics.